Opaganib

Opaganib is an orally administered, first-in-class, small molecule inhibitor of sphingosine kinase 2 (SK2), developed as a selective modulator of sphingolipid metabolism. It exhibits dual anti-inflammatory and antiviral activity by targeting host cell factors rather than the virus itself, making it less susceptible to resistance from viral mutations. Opaganib blocks the synthesis of sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), a lipid mediator involved in cell proliferation, migration, immune modulation, and angiogenesis. This mechanism underlies its potential anticancer effects as well as its ability to reduce inflammation and viral replication. The drug has demonstrated activity against SARS-CoV‑2 (COVID‑19), Ebola virus disease, Influenza A virus infection, and several cancers including neuroblastoma and cholangiocarcinoma. It is being investigated for multiple indications such as COVID‑19 pneumonia (Phase II/III), cholangiocarcinoma (Phase IIa), prostate cancer (Phase II), acute radiation syndrome, renal fibrosis, obesity-related disorders, diabetes mellitus type 2, ARDS caused by viruses like COVID‑19 or influenza, among others[1][2][3][5][7].

Brand names

YELIVA

Other names

opaganib3-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-(pyridin-4-ylmethyl)adamantane-1-carboxamide